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Dear Ruto, Here is the Truth to What is Funding And Fueling The Protests, And Why They Are Bound To Get Worse

BY Steve Biko Wafula · July 11, 2024 05:07 pm

The ongoing protests in Kenya are a stark reminder of the power vested in the people by the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, demonstration, picketing, and petition as stipulated in Article 37. These constitutional provisions empower the youth to voice their grievances against systemic issues such as corruption, unemployment, and human rights violations.

The protests are a wake-up call for the corrupt and incompetent political class, signaling that the era of unchecked impunity is coming to an end. The youth are utilizing their constitutional rights to demand accountability and transparency, underscoring the fundamental principle that power ultimately resides with the people.

This movement is not confined to Kenya; it reverberates across Africa, where similar issues plague many nations. The protests serve as a powerful message to leaders across the continent that the youth are no longer willing to tolerate governance that prioritizes personal gain over public service. By standing up for their rights, the Kenyan youth are inspiring their counterparts in other African countries to hold their leaders accountable and demand the governance they deserve. This wave of activism underscores a broader continental shift towards more engaged and politically conscious youth populations, ready to challenge the status quo and fight for a brighter future.

The Kenyan youth are at a tipping point. Disillusioned by the government led by President William Ruto, they have taken to the streets to demand better governance and accountability. The president’s response, which involves dismissing these protests as foreign-funded and orchestrated attempts to topple his administration, fails to address the core issues. I have taken time to interact with the youth, both online and offline to ascertain the real reasons behind the protests and why the youth are determined to fight for their rights as enshrined in the constitution.

Read Also: Kenya’s Youth Protests – A Justified Uproar Against Financial Mismanagement, Embezzlement And Open Theft

Unemployment Crisis

The primary driver of the protests is the staggering unemployment rate among the youth. Despite promises of job creation, the government has failed to deliver. The lack of employment opportunities has left a significant portion of the youth feeling hopeless and desperate for change.

Rampant Corruption

Corruption within the Ruto administration has reached unprecedented levels. Public funds meant for development projects and social services are being siphoned off by government officials. The youth are fed up with the blatant misuse of resources that could otherwise be used to improve their lives.

Open Theft by Officials 

The youth are particularly incensed by the open theft conducted by Cabinet Secretaries (CSs) and Principal Secretaries (PSs). These officials are supposed to be the custodians of public trust, but instead, they have become the primary perpetrators of financial mismanagement and embezzlement.

Insults from Officials 

Adding insult to injury, government officials have resorted to mocking the concerns of the youth. These insults further alienate the young population, fueling their anger and resolve to demand accountability.

Unprecedented Opulence

The opulence displayed by government officials stands in stark contrast to the poverty experienced by the majority of Kenyans. Lavish lifestyles funded by taxpayers’ money have become a symbol of the disconnect between the ruling elite and the common citizen.

Lack of Money for Education

Education is a fundamental right, yet many young Kenyans are unable to afford school fees. The government’s failure to invest adequately in the education sector has left countless youth without access to quality education, further perpetuating the cycle of poverty.

Healthcare Crisis

The situation in the healthcare sector is equally dire. The lack of funds for medicines and medical supplies has left many Kenyans unable to access essential healthcare services. This neglect has serious implications for the well-being of the population, especially the youth.

Food Insecurity

Food insecurity is a pressing issue that the government has not addressed adequately. Many families are struggling to put food on the table, and the rising cost of living has exacerbated the situation. The youth are demanding immediate action to alleviate hunger and malnutrition.

Housing Crisis

The inability to afford rent is another critical issue driving the protests. The lack of affordable housing has left many young people living in substandard conditions, which is unacceptable in a country with abundant resources.

Clothing and Basic Needs 

Even basic needs such as clothing are becoming unaffordable for many Kenyans. The government’s failure to create an environment where citizens can meet their basic needs is a significant factor fueling the unrest.

Human Rights Violations 

The unprecedented abductions and extrajudicial killings are a grave concern. The youth are protesting against the erosion of their basic human rights and demanding justice for the victims of state-sponsored violence.

Deception and Lies

The open lies propagated by President Ruto and his administration have eroded public trust. The youth are calling for honesty and transparency from their leaders, something that has been sorely lacking.

Punitive Tax Policies

Punitive tax policies have placed an undue burden on the population. The youth are demanding a fairer tax system that does not disproportionately affect the poor while allowing the wealthy to evade their responsibilities.

Business Environment

The bureaucratic hurdles and red tape involved in starting and running a business in Kenya are stifling entrepreneurship. The youth, who are eager to create their own opportunities, are frustrated by the government’s failure to create a conducive business environment.

Tribalism and Nepotism 

Tribalism and nepotism are rampant within the Ruto administration. These practices undermine meritocracy and breed resentment among those who are excluded from opportunities based on their ethnic background.

The protests are not funded by foreign entities but are a genuine outcry from a frustrated and oppressed youth. The issues at hand are deeply rooted in the mismanagement and corruption within the government. The youth are exercising their constitutional right to protest and demand a better future. It is imperative for President Ruto and his administration to listen to their grievances and take immediate action to address these critical issues. Failure to do so will only lead to more unrest and instability. The youth of Kenya deserve better, and it is time for the government to deliver on its promises or step aside for leaders who will.

Read More: Leaderless Movements: A Double-Edged Sword In Modern Protests

Steve Biko is the CEO OF Soko Directory and the founder of Hidalgo Group of Companies. Steve is currently developing his career in law, finance, entrepreneurship and digital consultancy; and has been implementing consultancy assignments for client organizations comprising of trainings besides capacity building in entrepreneurial matters.He can be reached on: +254 20 510 1124 or Email: info@sokodirectory.com

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